Lisette-Marie Roberts and the wonderful lightweight cob Randalstown Aristocrat took home top honours to become the 2026 Topham-Barnes BHSA Supreme Amateur champions at the Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead.This duo endured heartbreak after a costly misunderstanding in this class last season said this years victory means the world after returning to claim the title with a horse she describes as a darling boy. This combination were left devastated 12 months earlier when a miscommunication between Randalstown Aristocrat and the ride judge proved costly, leaving them out of the placings despite an otherwise strong performance.Last year we were pulled top, and he had a miscommunication with the ride judge and ended up not being placed at all, said Lisette-Marie. So for us to be pulled top again this year, I just had that in my head and I was thinking, Is it going to happen again?Fortunately, history did not repeat itself and the pair delivered a performance that impressed the judges, with Lisette-Marie taking particular satisfaction from the feedback she received.The judge said he gave such a good ride, she said. Im chuffed to bits with him. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1034447625995540Lisette-Marie credited much of the success to Randalstown Aristocrats generous nature, despite admitting he can sometimes be his own worst enemy.Hes a worrier, she explained. Hes always a little bit stressed that hes going to do something wrong, and if he does do something wrong, he cant cope with it. Although naturally anxious, Lisette-Marie said Randalstown Aristocrats temperament away from the pressure of competition is second to none.Hes got the loveliest temperament my daughter rides him and she isnt the most confident, and she feels really safe on him. Hes just a really likeable chap. Randalstown Aristocrats has changed yards during his career, having previously been based with Jane Ross before moving to Elliee Stunt, where Lisette-Marie carries out all of his day-to-day work as well as competing him.I had him with Jane Ross previously, but I wasnt riding him and I wanted to ride, she said. Hes now with Elliee, and I get to ride him at home and I do all the riding at the shows, so thats lovely. Lisette-Marie believes that consistency has helped strengthen the partnership, particularly with such a sensitive horse.He doesnt need a lot, she said. He just needs working in to get him relaxed. Its not for any other reason, just to help him settle. Despite his tendency to worry, Lisette-Marie said Randalstown Aristocrats straightforward nature makes him a pleasure to have around the yard.Hes no trouble. You can do anything with him, she said. Hes just a darling boy, honestly. Related contentRider savours inaugural home-produced amateur championship success at Hickstead after whirlwind first seasonHe feels like hes floating: young rider overcomes nerves to take Royal International supreme pony titleIts a massive achievement: Boston Black Tie lands Royal International supreme ridden horse titleTo win it three times is incredible: Robert Whitaker and Vermento take historic Hickstead King George victoryGemma Stevens makes history with third Eventers Challenge title at HicksteadI love them so much: 11-year-old girl jumps her way into history books at HicksteadThe post Hes a darling boy: emotional victory in Royal International supreme amateur championship makes up for disappointment 12 months ago appeared first on Your Horse.